Simone Biles and Shilese Jones both saw their Olympic dreams shattered in 2021 due to very different circumstances. During the Tokyo Olympics, Biles’ battle with the “twisties,” a condition that impairs gymnasts’ spatial awareness, received a lot of media attention. In the meantime, Jones had a personal tragedy that had a significant effect on her path.

Shortly before the Tokyo Olympics in January 2021, Shilese Jones had a broken foot and a damaged back in a car accident. The collision occurred at a traffic circle, and it had disastrous results for her. Recalling the accident, she said, “It was devastating.” Due to her injuries, Jones was forced to heal for three to four months—a crucial period when she should have been heavily preparing for the Olympics.

Her recovery process was challenging, but she persevered. Despite ongoing physical issues, Jones decided to participate in the Olympic Trials in June 2021. Although she displayed incredible fortitude, she placed tenth, narrowly missing a position on the United States squad. This close call was particularly painful for Jones, who had been considered a serious contender for the team before her accident.

The injuries had taken a tremendous toll on her mind and body, and her tumultuous year was far from over. Later that year, Jones’ father passed away from kidney failure, adding to her already difficult situation. Her life was left empty after his passing, which made the problems she was already having worse.

Simone Biles’ experience with mental roadblocks

As a clear favorite going into the Olympics in Tokyo, Simone Biles was predicted to add more medals to her already remarkable collection. But Biles suffered from the “twisties,” a deadly mental block that makes gymnasts lose their way in midair. This happened during the team final at the Tokyo Olympics.

It was risky for Biles to continue participating because of this tendency, which could result in serious injuries. Biles bravely chose to pull out from several events, putting her mental health and safety above the competition, despite the tremendous pressure and expectations. Regarding the mental block, Biles stated, “I chose to not continue team competition in jeopardizing losing a medal (of any color) for the girls / US also for my own safety and health.“

Her decision to withdraw from both the team and individual all-around challenges was a notable one in sports history, drawing attention to the problem of professional athletes’ mental health, which is commonly ignored. Many people were touched by Biles’ transparency regarding her battles with the twisties and mental health. In a conversation, Simone Biles added, “It’s honestly petrifying trying to do a skill but not having your mind & body in sync.“

By taking a minute to reflect, Biles started the discussion worldwide on the worth of mental wellness, particularly in high-pressure situations like the Olympics. Thus, talented performers confront a variety of hurdles, which were stressed at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Athletes need psychological care and assistance more than ever, as shown by Simone Biles’ struggle with the twisties and Shilese Jones’ personal loss.